10 Things You Need To Know Before Traveling To Europe

tsTravelling to Europe for the first time? Here are 10 things you need to know:

Not All Countries Use the EuroMany countries within the EU use the Euro as their currency. However, there are some exceptions. In the UK, Bulgaria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Hungary, Poland, Romania and Sweden you’ll need to use their own local currency.

You Don’t Need A VisaAs part of the Visa Waiver program, American citizens can travel to Europe without needing a visa. Despite recent worries in the news, this remains the case for the time being. The program entitles US citizens to a 90 day tourist stay in Europe.

You Need to give Your Bank a Head’s UpSometimes, when you travel and use your bank cards abroad, your bank gets worried that someone other than you is using your card and puts a temporary hold on the account. Getting hold of your bank and regaining use of your credit and debit cards whilst in Europe can be tricky. Before you leave on your trip, notify your bank of the countries you’ll be travelling to and you should never lose access to your accounts.

It Can Be Difficult to Download Apps AbroadWith a public Wi-Fi network or costly roaming data plan, downloading useful apps when you’re away can be difficult. Download apps like XE currency exchange, a language translator and a free communication app like Whatsapp, before you leave on your travels.

Cell Phone Usage Will be ExpensiveUsing a US registered cell phone in Europe will cost you an arm and a leg. Making reservations, calling home or using your data allowance can all rack up huge bills. Consider buying a cheap, pay as you go phone when you arrive in Europe to save costs.

Students Can Get Great Discounts with the ISIC CardThe International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is the only internationally recognised student ID. If you’re a student or you’re travelling with one, get them a card before you leave home. The card will get them discounts on public transport, hostels, museums, galleries and even purchases in some stores.

Carry-on Restrictions May Have ChangedThe rules around air travel are regularly changing in the light of new threats and technologies. If you have your heart set on watching movies on your laptop the whole flight through, double check that you’re allowed to take your computer into the cabin. What you can and can’t carry on to the plane is subject to change.

Visiting the UK Will Be CheaperAfter the Brexit vote, which started the process by which the UK will leave the EU, the pound has plummeted in value. This means you can get a lot more for your dollars at the moment and travel throughout the country has been made considerably cheaper.

Your Passport Validity Could Be a ProblemThe majority of EU countries require that your passport is valid for three months beyond your day of departure. Some require an even longer period. If your passport is due to expire within the next year, go online to find out the exact requirements of each country you’ll be visiting.

It’s a Good Idea to Book in Advance for Peak TimesIf you’re travelling to Europe at a peak holiday time, booking in advance will ensure you get to stay in your first choice hotel, get cheaper transport tickets and get to see all of your bucket list attractions. Whilst flexibility when you travel can be great, book in those must-sees before you embark on your trip.

Europe is a beautiful, varied and historic continent. Plan your trip well, make your preparations and you’ll make the most of your time spent travelling there.